After a decade or more of conducting the various bands within the Test Valley Brass organisation, with the last three at the head of its Senior Band, 4BR has been informed that MD Chris Sharp has announced he will be swapping his baton for a cornet.

Develop

Chris has been a member of Test Valley Brass for 19 years and has been instrumental is seeing them develop into a brass banding family boasts 50 members in the Youth Band and 25 in its senior outfit, which currently plays in the Third Section.

Enjoyed

He told 4BR: "It’s been a real privilege to conduct the various Test Valley Bands and I have thoroughly enjoyed every single minute, but I feel it’s time for a change and some fresh ideas."

"I’m going to play within the band and am really looking forward to it," he added.

"We have a great team of players and supporters and I can’t think of a better organisation to be part of. We have a thriving Youth Band and an excellent team of helpers and supporters, so the band is in great shape for a dynamic and keen Musical Director to take on."

Chris will continue until a replacement is found.

Chris has been a real inspiration as MD and although we will miss his conducting expertise and direction, it is going to be fantastic having him on cornetChairman, Peter Heslop

Inspiration

Peter Heslop, Chairman of Test Valley Brass added: "Chris has been a real inspiration as MD and although we will miss his conducting expertise and direction, it is going to be fantastic having him on cornet. He is a brilliant player and excels at whatever he does."

He concluded: "Chris has got the band in great shape for the next MD and we are looking forward to receiving applications and welcoming someone else to the team."